Why You Shouldn't Ignore a Leaky Faucet

A dripping faucet might seem like a minor annoyance, but the wasted water adds up fast — both to your water bill and the environment. The good news is that most faucet leaks are fixable with basic tools and a bit of patience. This guide covers the most common faucet types and how to repair them yourself.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

  • Adjustable wrench or basin wrench
  • Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
  • Replacement washers, O-rings, or cartridge (depends on faucet type)
  • Plumber's grease
  • Cloth or towel
  • Bucket or bowl

Step 1: Identify Your Faucet Type

Before starting, know what type of faucet you have:

  • Ball Faucet: Single handle that moves over a rounded cap. Common in kitchens.
  • Cartridge Faucet: Single or double handle; uses a cartridge mechanism inside.
  • Compression Faucet: Two separate handles; oldest and most common in older homes.
  • Ceramic Disc Faucet: Single lever over a wide cylindrical body; very durable.

Step 2: Shut Off the Water Supply

Locate the shut-off valve under the sink and turn it clockwise until fully closed. Turn on the faucet to release any remaining pressure and drain the remaining water. Place a towel or bucket under the work area.

Step 3: Disassemble the Faucet Handle

  1. Remove the decorative cap on top of the handle (usually pops off with a flathead screwdriver).
  2. Unscrew the handle screw underneath.
  3. Pull the handle off — it may need a gentle wiggle.
  4. Use a wrench to remove the packing nut, then pull out the stem.

Step 4: Locate and Replace the Worn Part

For compression faucets, the culprit is almost always a worn rubber washer at the bottom of the stem. Remove the old washer, take it to a hardware store to match the size, and replace it. Apply plumber's grease before reassembling.

For cartridge faucets, pull out the entire cartridge and replace it with an identical model. Note the orientation before removing so you reinstall it correctly.

For ball faucets, replace the full repair kit — springs, seats, O-rings, and the ball itself if worn.

Step 5: Reassemble and Test

  1. Reverse the disassembly steps to put everything back together.
  2. Tighten the packing nut securely but don't overtighten.
  3. Reattach the handle and decorative cap.
  4. Slowly turn the water supply back on.
  5. Test the faucet and check for any remaining drips.

When to Call a Plumber

If the leak persists after replacement, if you notice corrosion or cracks in the faucet body, or if the leak is coming from the pipe itself rather than the faucet hardware, it's time to call a licensed plumber. What appears to be a simple drip can sometimes indicate deeper plumbing issues.

Final Thoughts

Fixing a leaky faucet is one of the most satisfying DIY repairs you can make at home. With the right parts and a clear process, most homeowners can complete this repair in under an hour — and prevent ongoing water waste in the process.